Today, the research team led by Marine Biologist Dr. Emily Harmon is advancing efforts in shark conservation by focusing on tracking and studying great white sharks. As part of their broader mission to better understand shark movements and behaviors, the team utilizes sophisticated technology including drones and satellite tracking to provide real-time data on the whereabouts and activities of these formidable yet misunderstood ocean predators.

Great white sharks, scientific name Carcharodon carcharias, are often highlighted in media and popular culture owing to their size and power. Typically found in coastal surface waters in every major ocean, these sharks have adapted to a range of environments and are crucial to marine ecosystems due to their role as apex predators.

This research initiative seeks not only to mitigate unfounded fears around shark attacks but also to enhance public understanding of the crucial role sharks play in maintaining marine biodiversity. The importance of such projects has been underscored by a decrease in certain global shark populations, attributed to overfishing and habitat loss.

Dr. Harmon emphasized, "Each year, there are only about five to ten unprovoked shark attacks worldwide. Statistically, people have a higher chance of being injured in a car accident on the way to the beach than from encountering a shark. Our aim is to alleviate the stigmatization of sharks and promote conservation efforts.”

By building comprehensive data through tagging and tracking, conservationists hope to inform and develop strategies that facilitate human-shark coexistence and ensure the sustainability of shark populations for years to come. The team is currently preparing for their next expedition, which will involve collecting data on shark breeding patterns and their impact on local marine ecosystems.